Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the foothills of the Alps, Menton is often celebrated for its lemons, its gardens, and its uniquely mild microclimate. Yet beyond the pastel facades and the citrus groves lies a culinary heritage that is deeply rooted in the County of Nice and the neighboring Italian borderlands. For those who wish to taste the authentic soul of the French Riviera, exploring the traditional kitchens of Menton is essential. This is not a city of fleeting food trends; it is a place where recipes are guarded like family heirlooms.
The cuisine of Menton is a fascinating dialogue between French technique and Ligurian influence. Here, olive oil often replaces butter, and the bright acidity of local lemons cuts through the richness of slow-cooked meats. You will find dishes that are rare in other parts of France, such as barbajuan (crispy fritters stuffed with Swiss chard and rice) and socca (a chickpea flatbread). Dining traditionally in Menton means embracing simplicity—honest ingredients, robust flavors, and the unpretentious warmth of a family-run dining room.
However, navigating the restaurant scene in a border town that thrives on tourism can be tricky. It is easy to be lured into a tourist trap with a sea view that serves frozen food or generic Provençal fare. To truly understand Menton, you need to know where the locals go for their Sunday lunches, where the pasta is rolled by hand, and where the fish is sourced from the morning’s catch at the local market. This guide aims to strip away the noise and direct you to the establishments that honor the culinary history of this sun-drenched corner of France.
The essence of a great traditional restaurant in Menton is not just the food on the plate, but the atmosphere that surrounds it. It is the sound of French and Italian mingling in the air, the sight of a well-worn zinc bar, and the smell of garlic and basil drifting from the kitchen. Whether you are seated on a cobblestone alley in the Old Town or tucked into a modest dining room near the harbor, the experience should feel timeless. It should transport you to a Riviera that existed before the high-rises and the yachts.
In selecting the best traditional restaurants for this list, we have prioritized longevity, reputation, and a commitment to regional recipes. We have looked for menus that champion local produce, from the Menton lemon to the gamberoni of San Remo, and we have favored places that maintain a strong connection to their roots. While some of these venues are elegant and refined, others are rustic and familial; all of them, however, offer a genuine taste of Menton’s heritage.
Below, you will find a curated selection of the finest traditional dining experiences Menton has to offer. After the list, be sure to read our practical tips for dining out in this unique border town, which will help you navigate the cultural nuances of the local table and secure the best seats in the house.
L’Orangerie-restaurant Menton
| Address | 3 Rue de la Marne, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 9:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 97 14 84 91 |
L’Orangerie was a wonderful surprise in Menton. From the moment we arrived, we received a warm, professional, and genuinely attentive welcome.
Every dish fully lived up to our expectations, not only because of the quality and freshness of the ingredients, but especially because of the chef’s precision and excellent execution. The combination of Mediterranean cuisine with subtle Japanese influences brings personality and balance to each dish while always allowing the ingredients to shine.
After our experience, we completely understand the recognition from the Michelin Guide. The quality of the ingredients, precise cooking, flavors, and attention to detail can truly be appreciated in every dish.
Excellent cuisine, outstanding service, and a very pleasant atmosphere. Without a doubt, one of the best dining options in Menton and a restaurant we would definitely return to.
We had the €39 set menu for dinner. The food was not exceptional, but the quality was good given the price.
For starters, the red pepper mousse was flavorful, but a little too firm and not quite cold enough for my liking. Given the weather these days, I think it would have been more refreshing if it had been served cooler. The gazpacho was also well-balanced and fresh.
For the main courses, we ordered the salmon tataki. We won’t compare it with the salmon tataki we’ve had in Japan, but the salmon itself was good quality, with a nice balance of fatty richness and firm texture. The portion was generous, and the salmon was seared perfectly, with the interior remaining raw. The rice underneath, however, was not as chewy and fluffy as we would have liked, and the sauce was a little bland. The acidity of the pickled vegetables was great for cutting through the richness of the salmon, although it could be a little overpowering.
The pork was also cooked perfectly, and the fattier parts of the cut complemented the texture nicely. The sauce and vegetables were reasonable, although nothing particularly memorable.
The parfait was a little disappointing. It was a good combination of seasonal fruits, but nonetheless felt like not much work had gone into the dessert. The chocolate terrine, on the other hand, was rich and silky.
We would also like to mention that only two pieces of bread are served with the meal at a time, with more provided upon request. We felt that the portion was a little insufficient and, to be honest, somewhat ungenerous.
Service was okay. The servers were generally polite and did what they needed to do, but nothing more. We passed by the restaurant another day towards the end of service and stopped to look at the menu. The server who had previously served us happened to be there, but did not respond when we said, “Have a good evening.” It gave us the impression that, as long as you are a client, they will do their job, but there is little warmth or attentiveness beyond that.
The atmosphere, however, was pleasant, with an occasional breeze that made the outdoor seating enjoyable. A nearby restaurant had live music playing, which added nicely to the experience. When making the reservation, we were given the option of sitting indoors, outdoors under the tent, or outdoors without the tent. We would recommend sitting outside when the weather is good, as it really complements the dining experience.
Was in Paris for some Parisian Pride and Lyon Bouchon before Nice, dropping by in Menton for a lunch and I must rate this is the best pairing we ever had throughout the journey, the flavour and taste turns out as one of the best experience, we had white asparagus and seafood sashimi as starter, Salmon Tataki for both my daughter while I had Tuna and wife having Veal Tenderloin to perfection. Dessert was an absolute completion tocthe course…
We absolutely loved everything!
A special mention goes to the red pepper mousse, the guinea fowl dish, and the peach dessert – they were simply outstanding.
The food was fresh, beautifully presented, and full of flavor. The service was warm and welcoming, and the whole experience was memorable.
We highly recommend this restaurant. It was the best dinner we had during our trip to France!
Both the taste and presentation were excellent. Every dish was beautifully prepared and just as delicious as it looked. A wonderful dining experience that I would happily recommend.
Les Cotes de Menton
| Address | 59bis Prte de France, 06500 Menton |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:30 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 6:30 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 6:30 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 6:30 – 10:00 PM Friday: 6:30 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 6:30 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 6:30 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 51 20 84 |
What a great place - little bus ride from Menton (but beautiful moonlit walk back along the promenade).
Small menu - but then you know its done right - wife had lamb rack with truffle pasta with pomegranite - she loved it!! I had the Angus entrecote cooked to perfection served on a warm plate (tres importante) with some great frites (maybe too many) and a local herb sauce - was brilliant.
You have to try the lemon tiramasu - just glorious and of course the standard cognac and double espresso.
The steak and lamb a little expensive but well worth the spoil.
Hugely friendly and efficient serveuse who topped the evening with a smile.
A lovely place to eat. Great food. Lovely atmosphere. Very reasonably priced. Hostess was warm, friendly and made sure everyone felt special. On her own. Went twice in the week there it was that good though booking recommended.
Great steaks and lemon pie with friendly staff. Even the chef came to our table to check if everything was fine!
The steak and the hamburger was really good, totally recommend to try this place .
What a great little place. We didn’t book but were fortunately early enough to get one of the few remaining tables. As the restaurant filled, there was a lovely buzz of people enjoying their evening. The service was excellent with everyone attended to by one person who remained friendly and attentive despite being on the go non stop. The food was delicious and great value. We’re hoping to squeeze another visit in during our stay but will definitely reserve a table first.
Le bistrot des jardins
| Address | 14 Av. Boyer, 06500 Menton |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 28 28 09 |
Nice relaxing ambiance. In the center of Menton and yet quiet and very relaxing once you enter. So-so service. The food arrived on time and we were pleased.
We enjoyed our meal especially the sauce of the tuna. Ratatouille wasn’t great though. The coffee was super strong!
Amazing food best dinner we had in Menton. Garden was charming lots of locals which is the best sign of a good restaurant. Would recommend the food the setting and the services. Outside is a must on a beautiful summer night!
Delicious food! Atmosphere overall was pretty good and we appreciate that our server was very kind to us though we didn't feel super welcomed by all of the staff. The garden is very pretty, we were there in the middle of the day so for us it was warm with no breeze, but when the weather is better I'm sure it's fantastic!
This was our best dinner during our visit by far. The razor clams were delicate and delicious and the asparagus/ricotta ravioli with pea/mint sauce devine. We got the 3 course meal and thoroughly enjoyed the profiteroles and brioche with caramel ice cream.
Being a local person, I can only recommend this spot, compared to many others !
Very high quality food and good service and nice little green “îlot” in the nearby of the heart of Menton. I had recently 2 lunches and was very satisfied. Price is probably a bit higher than many others proposing only 🫤traditional Italian specialties (pizzas, spaghettis, parmigianas, etc.) which I like too, but for a change and to get this level of quality of products, taste and a French touch of cooking , this restaurant does worth it !
L'Entre II
| Address | 2 Av. Boyer, 06500 Menton |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 93 51 70 42 |
We came here for lunch. I really enjoyed the gnocchi with truffle and floating island desert. Both are delicious. I advise to book ahead especially for the Meton Lemon Festival in February.
We tried Entree II last week on a holiday in Menton. We were both pleasantly impressed. The food was top quality and the presentation was really good. The lady serving us was very nice and helpful. My partner became very quickly envious of my dish choice (even though his was great too) so we decided to go again another day. Unfortunately we didn't book and couldn't get in. So obviously a very well liked, popular place and I am not surprised.
I recommend it.
Great team and amazing restaurant. And biggest beef tartar in my life. Thank you
A quiet south west facing terrace, set back from the street and a smart modern interior. Big choice of Franco/italian foods and wines. Beer on ‘tap’. Friendly service. Dog friendly.
Wine and pasta is good
The service is good as well
Tiramisu also good
But next time will try beef tartare or other dishes
Les Gascons
| Address | 21 Pl. du Cap, 06500 Menton |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 04 93 35 45 65 |
A fantastic spot for classic French cuisine. The duck magret (duck breast) in sauce was simply magnificent—an absolute standout. The starters and the egg dishes were decent, but the duck really stole the show. They also have a very solid wine list featuring an excellent selection of Natural Wines.
The service was wonderful, and our waiter was an absolute super guy who made the whole experience even better. Everything was just great. Incredibly delicious and easily the best restaurant I visited in Menton. I highly recommend it!
Overall, a pleasant experience . The service was excellent—our waiter was absolutely wonderful, friendly, and attentive. As for the food, the duck breast was really good and well-cooked, while the egg starter was simple and classic. The only minor downside was the sauce and the french fries, which weren't quite to our taste. Still a very nice dinner overall, largely thanks to the great staff!
This place was amazing. I was there before 12'o clock but they allowed us to take a seat first during waiting and take a look at the menu first. Foie gras was so soft and delicate that I didn't want to have them even with baguette. They recommended beautiful duck breast and wine also, perfectly well paired. It was my last meal in France this time and I don't have any regret about my choice🌸
Amazing French food here, duck was the best we’ve ever had. Ingredients are sourced locally, with a unique modern twist on the dishes. I recommend the cocktail with Jacoulot. Service was friendly 🙂
We came expecting a sea view after a friend requested one, only to realise the restaurant doesn’t actually overlook the sea! Instead of brushing it off, the waiters completely ran with the joke and kept the light-hearted humour going all evening, which we absolutely loved.
The food was amazing, and the wine recommendations were spot on too. The service genuinely made the whole experience memorable.
Would 100% come back, even just for the waiters!
Merci!!
Le Stanley
| Address | 6 Pl. du Cap, 06500 Menton |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 – 10:30 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 41 37 22 |
totally not recommend this restaurant. The service was terrible, they were ripping off tourists, the food was mediocre, and the ambiance was just average. During our 15-day trip to the South of France, we ate at 20 restaurants, and this was the most expensive and worst experience we had. We didn't want to give a bad review; every business is struggling. But given how rude they were, we had to tell the truth. We chose this restaurant because other restaurants were crowded at lunchtime, while this one was less packed, and the Google rating seemed acceptable. Upon entering, we were the only customers seated indoors. Our group of seven was crammed into three small tables, which was extremely cramped. We asked for an extra table, but were refused. After we sat down, the waiter (pictured in photo 2) was very impatient, constantly rushing us and pressuring us to order. We wanted salad, but it wasn't on the menu. He offered to make us two small vegan mixed salads, but when we paid the bill, we found that each salad cost €23. At other restaurants, it would have cost less than €10. We ordered a cappuccino, but the bill listed it as a beef carpaccio. When we disputed the bill, the staff immediately admitted it was a mistake. However, his expression and attitude clearly indicated he was lying, trying to get away with it since we were tourists. At the end, they even gave us their shop's QR code, asking us to leave a 5-star review. We don't want to give any bad reviews, but after eating at 20 restaurants, this one clearly had a problematic attitude, and our experience was terrible. We don't recommend eating at this restaurant.
The food was some of the best tasting on our 2 week trip through Italy and France. The spaghetti with seafood is one of the bedt I have ever had. It was creamy and flavorful. My wife loved her veal dish. Even the prosecco was grest.
The waiter was very friendly, funny, and attentive.
Can’t believe I finished my pasta 🍝😭🤣 I had to skip breakfast the next day because I still full lol - i mean it was yummy ! Very generous on the seafood and very friendly staff too 🙂
Actually went here because this is probably the only place in Menton that accepts Cheques Vacances Connect. But I didn’t regret coming.
Foods were so fresh. Staffs were friendly even though the restaurant was packed.
They let me dine in by myself. Which is sometimes rare if the restaurant is full. Thanks will come back.
a cute small square to unwind. Delicious Aperol & Limoncello Spritz and even better Moules (the best I’ve had). Topped with great Service by Patrick! Merci 🙏🏼🍋💛
Le P'tit Resto
| Address | 19 Av. de la Madone, 06500 Menton |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: Closed Thursday: Closed Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 41 37 07 |
Very authentic. Food is really very delicious. I feel very cozy and warm. Highly recommended for those who really want to have delicious food and cozy authentic environment. And the lady who serve us is always smiling and saying thank you although she is alone serving all other customers. 5 stars customers service and food
Absolutely fantastic meal with great food. Filled with locals. Please don’t be put off by the decor. It’s very cute. Great value too.
We had such a lovely meal at Le P’tit Resto. It has a wonderful local French feel, and you can really tell it’s a family-run place. The mother, who is also the owner, takes care of the guests, while her son works in the kitchen, which gives the restaurant such a warm and authentic atmosphere.
The vibe is incredibly cute and welcoming, and the food was absolutely amazing. Everything tasted fresh, homemade, and full of flavor. The service was fantastic as well—friendly, attentive, and surprisingly quick without ever feeling rushed.
This was one of our favorite dining experiences in Menton. If you’re looking for delicious food, genuine hospitality, and a cozy local spot, Le P’tit Resto is definitely worth a visit! 😊😁😁👌🏻👌🏻
The best salmon I've ever tasted! Compliments to the chef!
Small family-run restaurant in Menton. The son cooks, his father who has a background from one of Monaco’s well-known restaurants still helps out.
The food was excellent. Homemade fish soup full of flavour, a beautifully cooked duck breast with honey and thyme, and a beef bourguignon that had clearly been going for hours. We finished with ice cream and crème brûlée, both great.
Relaxed atmosphere, lots of regulars, and the family came over for a chat during the evening. Genuine and unpretentious. We would love to come back!
Book ahead, it fills up fast.
Le Cosy
| Address | 5 Rue Edouard Sicardi, Pl. Fornari, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: Closed Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 35 52 17 |
It was a great experience!
We‘ve had our lunch here and they were so kind.
The food was great and the ladies very kind: the kids received a bracelet and I‘ve received a flower for mother day.
I recommend the place.
For the past 15 years, we have visited Le Cosy several times a year whenever we are in Menton. Originally rooted in traditional French cuisine – the classic soupe de poisson is still on the menu – it is now complemented by a selection of Italian dishes. Everything is prepared with a modern touch, always fresh and excellently executed.
The wine selection is carefully curated. The delicious amuse-bouche is always a highlight and perfectly reflects the restaurant’s warm hospitality. Offers good value for money
The chef clearly masters his craft, and the service has remained consistently friendly, attentive, and professional over the years. Last year, the restaurant also received a tasteful refresh: the terrace now features stylish lounge furniture with comfortable seating.
For us, there is hardly anything nicer than sitting here in the sun at the end of the year, enjoying a lovely lunch.
A clear recommendation
It was our last meal in Menton. Food was good. The service was rude. We ordered an entree to share and two mains. We did expect the entree to come first instead of everything coming together on the table.
Stopped here for dinner on our last night in Menton, had the mussels which were the best i had in the south of france. My wife had the beef and also loved it. Would come again
From the warm, hospitable welcome to the great coffee at the end: everything was perfect. The terrace is very cozy (with nice shady spots), the food is delicious and fresh, and even your drink is served in a fun, brightly decorated glass. You instantly want these brand-new owners to succeed. Highly recommended!
Côté Bistrot
| Address | 1 Rue Longue, 06500 Menton |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 6:00 – 9:30 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 86 20 04 |
very cute location and atmosphere, the dishes were delicious and good quality! one thing that I would say is that the pasta was a bit cold while the zucchini one was boiling hot but otherwise everything was perfect❣️ also might be worth to make a reservation if you want to be sure to get in!
Amazing Food,and the Unique Lemon Ice cream with vodka is nice. You must try! 💗 specially The Server’s are very welcoming.
Highly recommend restaurant. Very nice food and not just tourist menus. Great service too. Cozy and quiet.
This little bistro tucked away in the old town was really, really nice. I went in the evening around 8:30pm and I waited for about 10 minutes for a table. The atmosphere is peaceful and charming and the food was delicious. The waitress spoke French, Italian and English. I will be coming back a few more times.
A beautiful place. Gorgeous courtyard terrace under the church tower. Food was excellent and great value. Staff were lovely and helpful. The fish, sea bass and salmon, were superb. Pasta ravioli was delicious and the lamb skewers super. Ate here twice in the week it was that good. Will definitely return. Highly recommended. Patrice.
Palais des Princes
| Address | 123 Rue Longue, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 09 53 11 70 83 |
We cannot recommend Palais des Princes enough! The experience was perfect from start to finish. Every detail, from the meal itself to the actual space, felt meaningful and crafted thoughtfully.
We could immediately tell that the chef cares deeply about Menton and its history. There weren’t many vegan options during our stay in town, but this dinner completely took us by surprise. Not only was the food great, but the presentation was exciting and unique.
Lovely hidden gem!
No place encapsulates ‘hidden gem’ like this - inventive and fun food cooked by the owner whose energy and joy for what he does is as infectious as it gets. Truly a home-cooked experience in the best way possible. The chocolate mousse and Menton specialty cake were some of the best desserts I’ve had in my life.
A truly unforgettable experience – one of the best meals we had in Menton
This was more than just a dinner – it felt like being invited into someone’s home. The entire restaurant is run by a single person: an older gentleman who cooks, serves, hosts, and chats with guests – and somehow does it all with effortless charm.
The food is deeply local, hearty, and full of soul. We had the sharing menu and were honestly blown away by the variety and generosity. The starter platter alone had around seven different components, followed by an impressive fire-grilled roulette of skewers (both delicious and a bit theatrical), then a large plate with more surprises, a beautifully curated cheese selection with four kinds of cheese, and finally a lemon sabayon – a perfect nod to Menton’s famous citrus.
But what really made the evening special were the little touches. After dinner, we were served a homemade fruit-and-herb schnapps – and then another, and another, and another… in the end, we tried five different kinds! Each one unique and creative, clearly made with care and pride.
The décor is… let’s say eclectic. A bit mismatched, a bit quirky – but it only added to the charm. You can tell that everything here reflects the personality and taste of the owner, and that made the atmosphere feel all the more authentic.
All in all, this was one of our most memorable meals in Menton – not only for the food, but for the heart and hospitality behind it. A true hidden gem and an experience we’ll talk about for a long time.
I absolutely do not recommend this restaurant. We’ve been there several times over the past few days (we unfortunately gave it another chance hoping things would improve), but nothing has changed — it’s still just as horrible.
The food is simply disgusting. The dishes are poorly cooked, tasteless, sometimes cold or completely inedible. You can clearly tell there’s zero care or freshness involved.
The service is extremely unpleasant and aggressive. But what’s most shocking is the clearly racist attitude towards foreign customers. The looks, remarks, and different treatment are completely unacceptable in 2026. We felt unwelcome and discriminated against from the moment we arrived.
A restaurant that combines such terrible food, nasty service, and racist behaviour doesn’t deserve any customers. Avoid at all costs.
Cozy family style restaurant, delicious food. The owner is very enthusiastic and hospitable. You must try it when you come here.
Le Petit Port
| Address | 4 Rue du Jonquier, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | 04 93 35 82 62 |
We are foodies and live between USA and Italy. This restaurant is fabulous. For a beach town, not too pricey and not too touristy. The seafood, meat and pasta are top notch. The pasta was homemade and cooked perfectly. The parillada de la mer was huge and fantastic. We came yesterday since it was so good and had the poelee de coquilage en persillade and was so good. The service was fantastic. I truly think this is the best restaurant in Menton. Also we came with a friend who is very difficult when it comes to food and made many strange requests, the staff was completely kind and amenable. Thank you Le Petit Port.
Lovely meal and super friendly and good service. We were here in November 2025 for lunch. See photos.
You have to come here for the octopus salad, which isn't really a salad but more like an octopus stew, with forest mushrooms and tomatoes. Absolutely delicious, the best dish so far of our trip to the Ivory Coast. I also had the poached pair for dessert, also very good. We tried the Aperol Spritz which was very nice also. We came here based on the reviews and it did not disappoint.
I came to this restaurant without reservation that knowing is good rating was quite risky but I was given a table and it was a feast. Had delicious figues stuffed with truffle sauce and steak for main. Unfortunately after that didn't have space for desert, so if you're not a big eater, consider sharing some meals. Prices are above average but it's worth it. Restaurant is located in quiet place so you can enjoy food without noise of the town. Must go if you're in Menton.
We truly enjoyed our meal at this restaurant. The food was fantastic, but what made the experience even better was the staff. Everyone was incredibly friendly and greeted us with a smile, which made us feel very welcome. It’s refreshing to see such a positive and professional team. We will definitely visit again!
Le 31
| Address | 31 Quai Bonaparte, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 11:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 10:30 PM Thursday: Closed Friday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 10:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 6:30 – 10:30 PM |
| Phone | 06 40 65 07 92 |
Great atmosphere right by the boulevard. The staff were super friendly and we had a really nice chat with them during the lunch. Food was very nice. Go for the desserts for sure, homemade and extremely tasty. We had the lemon tart and moelleux au chocolat and it was amazing.
My favorite dinner in the French Riviera! Pasta is amazingggg. Fantastic service by Amar- Absolutely wonderful and attentive. Great ambiance and music. Also prices worth the food. Would love to visit again! Highly recommend on your stop to Menton. Also the lemon spritz was great! Thanks so much Amar!
Went here for a meal first night in Menton. Service was very good and the guy serving us did a great job with being professional and funny. The food itself was great, loads of flavor and the cocktails where made perfect! Highly recommend this place for a nice sea view dinner. 🥂
Amazing food! The seafood pasta was perfect, full of flavor and cooked just right. My boyfriend ordered the burger and he loved it as well.
The staff were very friendly and accommodating. We arrived without a reservation, and they still made space for us, which we really appreciated.
We had a great experience and would definitely come back!
The food and staff were so fantastic that we came back 2 nights in a row
Very reasonable cost and very generous portions
If we had friends staying in Menton we would recommend this place 😍
Practical Tips for Dining in Menton
To make the most of your culinary journey through Menton, it helps to understand the local rhythms and etiquette. Dining here is a leisurely affair, and the best meals are often those that are not rushed. The following advice will help you blend in with the locals and ensure that your focus remains on the exceptional food in front of you.
Embrace the Italian Influence
Menton sits just a few kilometers from the Italian border, and this is reflected deeply in its food. Do not be surprised to see fresh pasta, pesto, and focaccia on menus alongside French classics. Dishes like stockfish (a slow-cooked dried cod stew) are emblematic of this cross-border identity. When in doubt, ask your server for the dish that best represents the "cuisine mentonnaise"—they will likely point you toward something with Swiss chard, lemon, or olive oil.
Book Ahead, Even for Lunch
Menton is a popular destination year-round, but especially during the Lemon Festival in February and the summer months. The best traditional restaurants are often small, family-run affairs with limited seating. Relying on walk-in availability may leave you disappointed or forced into a lesser-quality tourist establishment. A quick phone call or an online reservation a day or two in advance is almost always necessary for dinner.
Look for the "Fait Maison" Label
In France, the designation "fait maison" (homemade) is legally protected. If you see this on a menu or a window, it guarantees that the dishes are prepared from scratch on the premises. This is a crucial indicator of quality in a tourist-heavy area like the Côte d’Azur. If a restaurant is proud of its homemade cooking, it will usually advertise it clearly. If the menu looks suspiciously generic and lacks this label, consider dining elsewhere.
Respect the Service Hours
French dining culture is structured, and Menton is no exception. Lunch is typically served from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, and dinner service rarely begins before 7:30 PM. If you try to order a full meal at 3:00 PM or 6:00 PM, you will likely find kitchens closed. Plan your day around these windows. Use the afternoon lull to visit the Jean Cocteau Museum or walk the gardens, then arrive for dinner when the kitchens are just firing up.
Mind the Dress Code
While Menton is a resort town, its traditional restaurants tend to lean toward "smart casual." You do not need a jacket and tie, but beachwear, flip-flops, and bare chests are generally frowned upon in the evening. Dressing neatly shows respect for the establishment and the craft of the chefs. A simple collared shirt or a sundress will ensure you feel comfortable in the more refined dining rooms on our list.
The beauty of dining in Menton lies in its contrasts. One moment you can be eating a delicate lemon-infused dessert in a Belle Époque dining room, and the next you are tearing into a slice of wood-fired socca on a street corner. The restaurants highlighted in this guide represent the backbone of the city’s gastronomic identity, preserving techniques that have been passed down through generations.
As you wander the winding streets of the Old Town or stroll along the Promenade du Soleil, let your senses guide you. The scent of fresh basil, the sound of a cork popping from a bottle of local rosé, and the sight of a perfectly roasted sea bream are all part of the experience. By choosing to dine traditionally, you are not just eating a meal—you are participating in the living history of one of France’s most enchanting coastal towns.
